HMSA's Journey to Eco-Friendliness: Your guide to Implement the UN Actions for a healthy Planet!

Introduction to the Manual

Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to effectively implement the United Nations' Actions for a healthy planet in your Student Organization, local committee (LC), or any other organization. In an era where environmental challenges are increasingly prevalent, it is critical to take decisive action towards sustainability The United Nations recognizes this imperative and has provided a set of Actions to follow in order to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable practices

We are pleased to present this Manual, which was inspired by the outstanding achievement of HMSA in winning first place in the National Activities Fair for Climate Change as a National priority 22-23. This remarkable accomplishment has motivated us to share our experience in implementing sustainable environmental practices, where individuals make informed, climate-friendly choices, thereby leading to impactful climate action in our local community of Helwan.

This Manual will serve as an indispensable guide for implementing the UN Actions in your LC and organization, with a focus on practical, actionable steps that can be taken to achieve your sustainability goals. We will delve into the key areas of focus outlined by the United Nations, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing energy efficiency, promoting sustainable practices in supply chains, and more

Moreover, throughout this Manual, we will underscore the successful eco-friendly initiatives implemented by the Helwan Medical Students' Association [HMSA], to provide examples of how the UN Actions can be effectively implemented

By

followin ingful steps towards a m embark on this journey e!

HMSA’s Journey to Sustainability

Introduction to HMSA

Helwan Medical Students' Association (HMSA) is a non-profit organization led by medical students. It was established by the Faculty Council's decision No. 12 on June 13, 2017. HMSA is dedicated to working in the fields related to medicine and healthcare

HMSA-Helwan is an Associate Member of the International Federation of Medical Students Associations - Egypt (IFMSA-Egypt). IFMSA-Egypt was founded in 1969 and is composed of 27 Local Committees, each representing medical students at a Faculty of Medicine of an Egyptian University

HMSA-Helwan, together with the other 26 Local Committees of IFMSA-Egypt, actively takes part in the implementation of IFMSA-Egypt’s Strategic Plan 2021-2024, with its vision in mind: IFMSA-Egypt serves as the representative organization and leading opportunities hub for medical students in Egypt, making it an integral part of every student’s medical journey and a leading youth, health advocacy organization among stakeholders

IFMSA-Egypt is a Full National Member Organization of the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA). IFMSA was founded in May 1951 and, currently, it is composed of 142 National Member Organizations, like IFMSA-Egypt, in 131 Countries, spanning 6 continents. IFMSA is the sole representative of medical students worldwide, an NGO affiliated with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, a non-state actor registered with the World Health Organization (WHO), and a collaborator with the World Medical Association on various programs. IFMSA is also recognized by the WHO as the official international forum for medical students

HMSA is an administrative affiliate of Helwan University's Faculty of Medicine and is subject to all regulations and provisions set by the Faculty. All activities of HMSA are carried out under the patronage of the Faculty's Dean and its Vice-Dean for Education and Student Affairs. HMSA actively seeks to contribute to the achievement of the Faculty's vision and mission through its activities, which aim to provide medical students with knowledge, skills, and opportunities to enhance and improve both their personal and professional development. To this end, HMSA collaborates with the Faculty's Community Service and Environment Development Sector, Medical Education Unit, and Quality Assurance Unit.

Overview of HMSA's Advocacy Efforts for Climate Change And Eco-friendliness

Climate Change has been embraced as a sustainable local project by the esteemed Helwan Medical Students Association (HMSA) since GA 2020-2021. In this regard, HMSA has exhibited an unwavering commitment to contributing to the implementation of SDG 13 (Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts) by aligning its local work to the SDG 13 targets, particularly target number 13.3. This target calls for the improvement of education, awareness-raising, and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning. Through a series of workshops, webinars, and campaigns, HMSA has conducted more than 7 events, reaching over 5,000 individuals. This includes 4 Physical Campaigns and 6 online Campaigns that have been pivotal in raising awareness of the urgent need to combat climate change, and the critical role of education and capacity building in achieving this goal.

HMSA has earned a prominent place as a respected voice at Climate Change events, having sent 4 Representatives to LCOY 22, 1 Representative to the Climate Change workshop with IOM 22, and 2 representatives to the National Climate Change Advocacy group.

HMSA recognizes that a healthy environment is fundamental to supporting healthy living. Therefore, it has launched an innovative initiative called (

), which seeks to promote house planting and encourage individuals to take action to protect the environment. Through this initiative, HMSA is inspiring individuals to plant trees and other plants around their homes, not only enhancing the aesthetic appeal of their property but also providing numerous environmental benefits

HMSA has taken proactive steps to address climate change and promote sustainability, as exemplified by organizing a Local General Assembly Meeting under the theme of climate change. This assembly brought together all Helwan Medical students to discuss the impact of climate change on the environment. The assembly featured presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, allowing participants to engage in meaningful dialogue and exchange ideas on how best to address this pressing issue. Through this general assembly, HMSA demonstrated its commitment to promoting environmental sustainability and its leadership role in the community in the fight against climate change

As an organization that is dedicated to promoting sustainability, HMSA OC took eco-friendly actions in organizing the First National General Assembly hosted by HMSA-Helwan These actions included

● Venue selection: HMSA chose a venue that was accessible by public transportation to encourage attendees to use alternative modes of transportation and reduce emissions from private vehicles.

● Digital Communication: The organizing committee made an effort to reduce paper usage by utilizing digital communication channels for event invitations, program schedules, and other relevant information.

● Sustainable materials: HMSA provided the participants with sustainable materials as wooden coasters

Lastly, HMSA's commitment to promoting sustainability and addressing climate change is an ongoing effort. The organization recognizes that the fight against climate change requires sustained action and a long-term commitment to promoting sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions Therefore, HMSA will continue to advocate for climate action in the community, working to raise awareness of the environmental impacts of h i i d i i bl i h i di id l d

Overview of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 goals and 169 targets aimed at promoting sustainable development and ending poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring prosperity for all The SDGs were adopted in 2015 by all UN member states as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

While all the SDGs are interconnected, several are particularly relevant to climate change These include:

This goal aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. It includes targets to increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix and improve energy efficiency

This goal aims to build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation It includes targets to promote sustainable practices in industries and reduce the environmental impact of infrastructure.

This goal aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. It includes targets to reduce the environmental impact of cities, increase access to green spaces, and improve urban planning

This goal aims to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. It includes targets to reduce waste generation, promote sustainable practices in production and procurement, and increase awareness of sustainable lifestyles

This goal aims to take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. It includes targets to strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards, integrate climate change measures into policies and planning, and increase awareness and education on climate change

This goal aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development. It includes targets to reduce marine pollution, protect marine ecosystems, and increase sustainable use of marine resources

This goal aims to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. It includes targets to combat desertification, reduce deforestation, and promote sustainable management of forests. By working towards these SDGs, organizations can help address climate change and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.

Overview of The UN Recommended Actions for A Healthy Planet

Greenhouse gasses (also known as GHGs) are gasses in the earth's atmosphere that trap heat. During the day, the sun shines through the atmosphere, warming the earth's surface At night the earth's surface cools, releasing heat back into the air

Greenhouse gas emissions per person vary greatly among countries In the United States of America, emissions in 2020 (the latest available data) were 14.6 tons of CO2 equivalent per person – more than double the global average of 6 3 tons, and six times the 2.4 tons per person in India.

According to the UN, To preserve a livable climate, the average emissions per person per year will need to drop to around 2 to 2 5 tons of CO2 by 2030

So the United Nations published these 10 recommended actions to encourage the public to reduce their carbon footprint

You can find them Here

How Implementing The UN’s Recommended Actions for A Healthy Planet Can Benefit Student Organizations?

1. Enhance Reputation

Implementing sustainable practices can enhance the reputation of the student organization and increase its credibility among stakeholders This can lead to increased support from the campus community, including students, faculty, and staff

2. Cost Savings

Adopting sustainable practices can help student organizations reduce their operating costs For example, implementing energy-efficient lighting and appliances can reduce energy bills, while reducing paper usage can save on printing and paper costs.

3. Increase Engagement

Sustainable practices can provide opportunities for students to engage in environmental and social issues By implementing sustainable practices, students can gain hands-on experience and develop skills that are valuable in the job market.

4. Foster Innovation

Implementing sustainable practices can encourage innovation and creativity among students. By finding new and innovative ways to reduce the environmental impact of the student organization, students can develop skills that are increasingly in demand by employers

5. Meet Social Responsibility Goals

Implementing sustainable practices can help student organizations meet their social responsibility goals. By reducing their environmental impact, student organizations can contribute to a more sustainable future and demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility.

How Did HMSA Implement The UN Recommendations?

UN Recommended Action Points:

1 Conserve Heating and Cooling: Lower your heating and cooling usage by adjusting the thermostat to more moderate temperatures Dress appropriately for the weather to reduce the need for excessive heating or cooling

2. Switch to LED Light Bulbs: Replace traditional light bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs to reduce electricity consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

3 Use Energy-Efficient Electric Appliances: Opt for energy-efficient appliances when purchasing new ones These appliances consume less electricity and contribute to a lower carbon footprint.

4. Cold Water Laundry: Wash your laundry with cold water instead of hot water. This simple change can significantly reduce energy consumption in the washing process

5. Air Dry Clothes: Whenever possible, hang your clothes to dry instead of using a dryer. This helps save electricity and reduces carbon emissions.

6 Improve Home Energy Efficiency: Enhance your home's energy efficiency by insulating windows, doors, and walls Proper insulation helps reduce energy waste and keeps your home comfortable

7. Consider Electric Heat Pumps: If you have an oil or gas furnace, think about switching to an electric heat pump. Electric heat pumps are more energy-efficient and have a lower environmental impact.

● HMSA’s Approach to Follow This Action:

In pursuit of a sustainable future, it is imperative to adopt an innovative and proactive approach towards sustainability As such, we propose a novel idea of organizing workshops and sessions in outdoor green spaces, rather than traditional indoor coworking spaces or meeting rooms. This approach represents a significant departure from conventional practices that result in substantial carbon emissions due to high energy consumption in indoor spaces. By taking this bold step, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and promote the benefits of spending time in nature.

The choice to utilize outdoor green spaces for workshops and sessions is not only a sustainable option but also a highly effective one Research has shown that exposure to nature has numerous mental and physical health benefits, including reduced stress levels and increased cognitive function Furthermore, outdoor spaces provide an ideal setting for creative thinking, collaboration, and team-building activities. By organizing workshops and sessions in outdoor green spaces, we can create a conducive environment for productive and innovative thinking, while also promoting sustainability.

Real-life Examples:

● HMSA held Capacity Building events (HMSA CB Weekends) in public parks

● HMSA held a workshop on Mental Health in an open area on our university campus

UN Recommended Action Points:

1. Opt for Walking or Biking: Whenever feasible, choose walking or biking as a mode of transportation. Not only will this help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but it will also promote better health and fitness.

2 Choose Public Transportation: For longer distances, consider using trains or buses as an eco-friendly alternative to driving Public transportation significantly cuts down individual carbon emissions

3. Carpooling: Whenever possible, join or initiate a carpool with colleagues, friends, or neighbors. Carpooling reduces the number of vehicles on the road, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions

4 Reduce Reliance on Cars: Aim to live a car-free lifestyle, relying on alternative transportation options like walking, biking, public transit, and carpooling. This lifestyle change can reduce your carbon footprint by up to 2 tons of CO2e annually compared to using a car regularly.

● HMSA’s Approach to Follow This Action:

As a forward-looking organization, we recognize the critical role we must play in promoting sustainable practices and reducing our carbon footprint. In this regard, we propose an innovative approach to encourage members to commit to climate action by promoting the use of public transportation and active transportation options.

We shall establish designated meeting points for group travel to physical events, thereby promoting the use of public transportation. This approach not only helps to reduce carbon emissions but also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie amongst members. Furthermore, we shall organize cycling and marathon events as standalone events or as part of the organization's social programs By promoting active transportation options, we can encourage members to adopt a healthy lifestyle while also reducing their carbon footprint

Our commitment to promoting sustainable practices is unwavering, and we believe that this approach will set a new standard for others to follow. By embracing this innovative idea, we can demonstrate our leadership in promoting sustainable practices and inspire others to follow suit. Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come

Real-life Examples:

● HMSA encourages its members to use the Metro as a transportation method in their physical events

UN Recommended Action Points:

1 Increase Plant-Based Foods: Incorporate more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds into your diet These foods have a lower environmental impact compared to meat and dairy products

2. Reduce Meat and Dairy Consumption: Cut down on the consumption of meat and dairy products. Choose plant-based alternatives whenever possible.

3 Choose Plant-Based Options: Opt for plant-based food products that generally have fewer greenhouse gas emissions and require less energy, land, and water to produce

4. Consider a Vegetarian or Vegan Diet: Transition from a mixed diet to a vegetarian or vegan diet. This change can significantly reduce your carbon footprint by up to 500 kilograms of CO2e per year for a vegetarian diet and up to 900 kilograms for a vegan diet.

5 Support Sustainable Farming: When purchasing food products, choose those that come from sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices

● HMSA’s Approach to Follow This Action:

As a responsible organization dedicated to promoting sustainable practices, we recognize the importance of adopting innovative and proactive approaches towards sustainability In this regard, we propose the introduction of fruits and vegetables as a part of snacks and lunch breaks at in-person events.

This approach represents a significant departure from conventional catering options and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to promoting sustainable and health-conscious practices. By incorporating more plant-based options into our catering, we not only foster healthier eating habits but also help to reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional catering options Furthermore, this approach aligns with our values as an organization committed to promoting environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

The benefits of plant-based diets are well-documented, with research showing that they are not only beneficial for personal health but also have a positive impact on the environment By introducing fruits and vegetables as part of our catering options pire positive change towards a more environ

Real-life Examples:

● SCOPH Standing al events of HMSA, in their unwavering ll-being of members, consistently inco quisite and healthful snacks.

UN Recommended Action Points:

1 Minimize Air Travel: Whenever possible, opt for alternative modes of transportation and reduce the frequency of flights. Taking fewer flights is one of the quickest ways to lower your environmental impact.

2 Embrace Virtual Meetings: Consider holding virtual meetings instead of traveling for face-to-face interactions Virtual meetings can significantly cut down on greenhouse gas emissions from air travel

3. Choose Trains for Shorter Distances: For shorter distances, choose trains as a more eco-friendly option. Trains generally have lower carbon emissions compared to airplanes.

4 Reconsider Long-Distance Trips: Evaluate the necessity of long-distance trips and assess if they can be avoided or replaced with alternative options

5. Reduce Long-Haul Flights: Taking one less long-haul return flight can make a substantial difference, reducing your carbon footprint by up to nearly 2 tons of CO2e.

● HMSA’s Approach to Follow This Action:

In our unwavering pursuit of excellence, we recognize the critical role we must play in promoting innovative and sustainable practices. In this regard, we propose incorporating virtual meetings, sessions, and TOMs into at least 20% of the organization's monthly schedule.

This approach represents a significant departure from conventional practices and demonstrates our commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability. By utilizing virtual platforms, we can facilitate remote participation from members located in different regions or those with scheduling conflicts. This approach not only fosters inclusivity but also helps to reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional in-person meetings.

Our dedication to promoting sustainability and innovation is unwavering, and we believe that this approach will set a new standard for others to follow. By incorporating virtual meetings into our operations, we can demonstrate our leadership in promoting sustainable practices and inspire others to follow suit.

Real-life Examples:

● HMSA, in its distinguished pursuit of organizational excellence, convenes a total of four Standing Committee meetings during each term, ensuring that at least one of these meetings is conducted in an exemplary online format

UN Recommended Action Points:

1 Mindful Purchasing: Buy only what you need and plan your meals to avoid over-purchasing This reduces food waste and saves the resources and energy used in its production and transportation

2. Utilize Leftovers: Be creative with leftovers and incorporate them into new meals. Avoid discarding edible food whenever possible.

3 Composting: Compost any food scraps or non-edible parts of fruits and vegetables Composting helps divert food waste from landfills, reducing methane emissions

4. Proper Storage: Store food properly to extend its freshness and avoid spoilage. This ensures you make the most of your groceries and minimize waste.

5 Donate Surplus Food: Consider donating surplus, non-perishable food items to food banks or local charities to help those in need and prevent food waste

6. Educate and Raise Awareness: Spread awareness about the importance of reducing food waste among friends, family, and colleagues. Encourage others to adopt sustainable food consumption practices

● HMSA’s Approach to Follow This Action:

As a distinguished organization committed to promoting excellence and sustainability, we recognize the critical role we must play in adopting innovative and proactive approaches towards promoting sustainable practices In this regard, we propose the introduction of communal meals during lunch breaks at our events.

This approach represents a significant departure from conventional practices and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of community, camaraderie, and sustainability By taking the lead in organizing communal meals, we can encourage members to share meals, thereby reducing food waste and the carbon footprint associated with individual meals

Our dedication to promoting sustainable practices is unwavering, and we believe that this approach will set a new standard for others to follow By encouraging shared meals, we can demonstrate our leadership in promoting sustainable practices and inspire positive change towards a more environmentally-conscious future

In conclusion, this proactive approach towards sustainability and community building demonstrates our unwavering commitment to excellence and leadership By embracing this innovative idea, we can pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future and inspire positive change for generations to come

Real-life Examples:

● The Organizing Committees of HMSA events, with an ardent dedication to environmental stewardship, demonstrate a noble preference for shared meals during lunch breaks

UN Recommended Action Points:

1 Conscious Consumption: Be mindful of your purchases and buy only what you truly need Avoid unnecessary buying to minimize carbon emissions associated with production and transportation

2. Opt for Second-Hand: Consider buying second-hand or refurbished items whenever possible. This choice reduces the demand for new production and helps cut down on carbon emissions.

3 Repair and Reuse: Repair items instead of discarding them when possible Extending the lifespan of products reduces the need for new replacements and their associated carbon footprint

4. Embrace Recycling: Recycle materials like electronics and textiles to minimize waste and the environmental impact of producing new items.

5 Reduce Clothing Purchases: Limit the frequency of buying new clothes and consumer goods Every kilogram of textiles produced emits about 17 kilograms of CO2e, so reducing clothing purchases can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

6. Educate Others: Spread awareness about the environmental impact of consumer goods and promote sustainable consumption practices among friends and family

● HMSA’s Approach to Follow This Action:

As a distinguished organization committed to promoting excellence and sustainability, we recognize the critical role we must play in adopting innovative and proactive approaches towards promoting sustainable practices In this regard, we propose the incorporation of recycled materials in event decorations to promote recycling practices and inspire positive change among our members.

This approach represents a significant departure from conventional practices and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By utilizing recycled materials in event decorations, we provide tangible demonstrations of the benefits of recycling and inspire our members to adopt sustainable behaviors both within and beyond the organization.

Our dedication to promoting sustainable practices is unwavering, and we believe that this approach will set a new standard for others to follow. By setting an example of using recycled materials, we can demonstrate our leadership in promoting sustainable practices and inspire positive change towards a more environmentally-conscious future

Real-life Examples:

● HMSA adorned its presentation booth with exquisite artistry during the esteemed IFMSA-Egypt's Winter Camp XIII Activities Fair, showcasing decorations crafted from upcycled cartons and bottles

UN Recommended Action Points:

1. Inquire with Utility Company: Contact your utility company and ask about the source of your home energy. Find out if it comes from oil, coal, or gas, and explore renewable energy options they may offer.

2 Opt for Renewable Sources: If possible, switch your home energy supply to renewable sources like wind or solar power This choice reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers carbon emissions

3. Consider Solar Panels: Explore the possibility of installing solar panels on your roof to generate renewable energy for your home. Solar power is a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative

4 Seek Green Energy Programs: Look for green energy programs or providers that supply electricity from renewable sources. Many regions offer such options to consumers.

5 Educate Others: Share your experience with renewable energy adoption and encourage others to consider making the switch as well

● HMSA’s Approach to Follow This Action:

As a distinguished organization committed to promoting excellence and sustainability, we recognize the critical role we must play in adopting innovative and proactive approaches towards promoting renewable energy sources In this regard, we propose the organization of initiatives aimed at increasing awareness about the importance and efficacy of utilizing renewable energy sources.

This approach represents a significant departure from conventional practices and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By educating and advocating for the use of renewable energy sources, we can inspire positive change and promote a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Our dedication to promoting sustainable practices is unwavering, and we believe that this approach will set a new standard for others to follow. By promoting renewable energy sources, we can demonstrate our leadership in promoting sustainable practices and inspire positive change towards a more environmentally-conscious future

Real-life Examples:

● HMSA orchestrated an eminent awareness campaign as an integral component of the distinguished Environmental Festival of the Faculty of Medicine, meticulously focusing on the paramount subject of Climate Change and the imperativeness of initiating the utilization of renewable resources

UN Recommended Action Points:

1. Consider Electric Cars: If you're planning to buy a car, explore electric vehicle options due to the increasing availability and affordability of models in the market.

2 Research Environmental Impact: Look into the environmental impact of electric vehicles in your region In many countries, electric cars contribute to reduced air pollution and fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to gas or diesel-powered vehicles.

3. Assess Electricity Source: Check the source of electricity used to power electric vehicles in your area Aim for regions with a higher percentage of renewable energy to ensure a cleaner energy supply

4. Mindful Battery Materials: Understand that electric vehicle batteries often require rare minerals with potential environmental and social costs. Research sustainable practices in battery production and disposal.

5 Switch to Electric or Hybrid: Transition from a gasoline or diesel-powered car to an electric vehicle or a hybrid model This change can significantly reduce your carbon footprint by up to 2 tons of CO2e per year for electric cars and up to 700 kilograms of CO2e per year for hybrid vehicles

6. Advocate for Sustainable Practices: Encourage automobile manufacturers to adopt more sustainable practices in the production and disposal of electric vehicle components.

● HMSA’s Approach to Follow This Action:

As a distinguished organization committed to promoting excellence and sustainability, we recognize the critical role we must play in adopting innovative and proactive approaches towards promoting electric vehicles (EVs) In this regard, we propose the organization of activities aimed at promoting awareness about EVs.

This approach represents a significant departure from conventional practices and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By educating individuals and communities about the benefits of EVs and addressing common misconceptions, we can help increase adoption and reduce the carbon footprint of the transportation sector.

Our dedication to promoting sustainable practices is unwavering, and we believe that this approach will set a new standard for others to follow By promoting EVs, we can demonstrate our leadership in promoting sustainable practices and inspire positive change towards a more environmentally-conscious future

Real-life Examples:

● In collaboration with the NADA Foundation, we commemorated the United Nations Global Road Safety Week through a comprehensive initiative. This endeavor encompassed a dual approach, consisting of an engaging online campaign as well as a distinguished two-day physical workshop centered around the theme of "Road Safety and its Interplay with Climate Change". The workshop included a session on electric vehicles, specifically focusing on TESLA as a leading example

UN Recommended Action Points:

1. Conscious Consumerism: Be mindful of your purchases and choose goods and services from companies that prioritize responsible resource usage and have a commitment to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and waste

2 Support Sustainable Companies: Prioritize products from businesses that demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

3 Check Investment Portfolios: Review any investments you have, such as pension funds, to ensure they are not supporting fossil fuels or activities leading to deforestation Seek environmentally sustainable investment options

4. Choose Green Investments: Explore investment opportunities that support environmentally sustainable businesses and initiatives. Look for options that align with your values and goals.

5 Advocate for Change: Encourage companies and financial institutions to adopt sustainable practices and divest from environmentally harmful activities

6. Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about the environmental impact of your financial decisions and share this knowledge with others to raise awareness and promote responsible choices.

● HMSA’s Approach to Follow This Action:

As a distinguished organization committed to promoting excellence and sustainability, we recognize the critical role we must play in adopting innovative and proactive approaches towards promoting sustainable practices In this regard, we propose a collaboration with the fundraising support division to purchase sustainable materials for future events, rather than non-reusable materials.

This approach represents a significant departure from conventional practices and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By purchasing sustainable materials for future events, we not only align with our environmental values but also engage in responsible practices that reduce the carbon footprint of the organization.

Our dedication to promoting sustainable practices is unwavering, and we believe that this approach will set a new standard for others to follow. By setting an example of purchasing sustainable materials, we can demonstrate our leadership in promoting sustainable practices and inspire positive change towards a more environmentally-conscious future

Real-life Examples:

● HMSA exemplifies its dedication to sustainability by investing in recyclable and reusable materials for various aspects of its workshops and campaigns, ensuring a responsible and eco-friendly approach in all our activities.

UN Recommended Action Points:

1. Speak Up and Engage: Take the initiative to voice your concerns and encourage others to join in taking action for the environment. Start conversations with neighbors, colleagues, friends, and family about climate issues and the importance of collective efforts.

2 Support Bold Changes: Let business owners and local leaders know that you support and appreciate bold actions toward climate protection and sustainable practices

3. Advocate for Urgent Action: Reach out to local and world leaders, urging them to prioritize climate action and implement effective policies to combat climate change.

4 Collaborate and Unite: Recognize that climate action requires collective efforts. Collaborate with others, including community groups and organizations, to work together towards a greener and more sustainable future.

5 Share Knowledge and Awareness: Raise awareness about the importance of climate action and its impact on all of us Educate others about the urgency and necessity of taking steps to protect the environment

6. Encourage Positive Change: Emphasize that while no one person can solve all environmental challenges alone, collective action and collaboration can lead to meaningful and impactful change.

● HMSA’s Approach to Follow This Action:

As a distinguished organization committed to promoting excellence and sustainability, we recognize the critical role we must play in adopting innovative and proactive approaches towards addressing climate change In this regard, we propose the establishment of climate change as a sustainable local project within your LCs.

Furthermore, organizing regular campaigns to advocate for climate change can help raise awareness and create momentum towards a more sustainable future. By engaging with communities and promoting sustainable practices, we can demonstrate our leadership in addressing climate change and inspiring positive change

Our dedication to promoting sustainable practices is unwavering, and we believe that this approach will set a new standard for others to follow. By embracing this innovative idea, we can pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future and inspire positive change for generations to come.

Real-life Examples:

● HMSA General Assembly has formally embraced Climate Change as a paramount local project.

● HMSA proudly inaugurated a momentous initiative entitled "

to fervently promote the practice of home planting.

● The inaugural General Assembly Meeting for the illustrious term of 2022/23 was brillia or Climate Change"

In closing, we hope that this manual has provided you with valuable insights and practical tips on how to promote eco-friendly action in your daily life and within your organization. By adopting sustainable practices and reducing your carbon footprint, you can contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet and for future generations. Remember, even small actions can make a big difference, so we encourage you to take action today and join us in the fight against climate change Let's work together to create a healthier and more sustainable world for all!

Thank you for your commitment to sustainability and for being a part of the solution!

Credits

This manual would not be possible without the collaborative work between:

● Omar Hafez (President 22/23)

● Yehia Mohamed (Secretary-General and Treasurer 21/23)

● Esraa Amr (LPO 21/23)

● Reem Seleem (PNSDD 22/23)

● Safa Khaled (Climate Change Local Coordinator 22/23)

#Your _ Actions _ Matter